When you first hear of a crown, you probably think of a gleaming, golden headpiece. However, a dental crown isn’t exactly drenched in gold. Nonetheless, it still does act as a cover piece for your tooth. The question is, though, does getting a crown hurt? Or is it as plain as putting on a cap? Let’s find out.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a protective covering used for your tooth. Dentists usually recommend getting a crown when the original tooth is far too weak or damaged. Thus, a crown can be super effective in restoring your teeth’ overall shape and appearance.
Initially, the idea may seem foreign, but there’s nothing to be afraid of. Plus, Did you know crowns are also known as dental caps? Quite a fitting nickname, isn’t it?
Benefits of getting a Crown
Although they’re not a marker of royalty, dental crowns still have plenty of benefits. If you’re on the brink of wondering whether or not getting a crown is a good choice, take a look below.
- Common Procedure
- Completely Safe
- Helps to strengthen teeth
- Hides damaged tooth
- Enhances overall appearance
- Long-lasting
- Protects teeth from external harm
- Secures a dental bridge
- Covers up discoloration
- Used to preserve a fresh root canal filling
Does Getting a Crown Hurt? What Should You Expect?
Many people believe that getting a crown is painful. However, that is not the case. Compared to other dental procedures, crowns don’t hurt at all. In fact, listed below is a step-by-step guide to help you know what to expect when getting a crown.
Step One: The First Visit
On your first visit, the dentist examines your teeth and conducts an X-Ray. This is to see whether your tooth is damaged or in need of a filling.
Step Two: Make a Mold
Once your x-ray is taken, your dentist will proceed to get your tooth’s shape on a mold. You will have to bite down on a silly-putty type of substance. This will help to give the crown its shape. Hence, making it fit perfectly so that it balances out the other teeth surrounding it.
Step Three: Time to Trim
After getting the tooth imprint, you will have to undergo minor surgery. However, due to the anesthesia, you won’t feel a thing. The dentist will trim your tooth down a few inches to fit the circumference of the crown.
Step Four: Temporary Fix
Since your tooth will now be in a weak state, your dentist will give you a resin prosthetic to cover it with. This will act as a temporary crown until your next visit.
Step Five: Out With The Old, In With The New
Once the original crown is complete, you will be asked to revisit the dentist in the following days or weeks. The dentist will remove the resin crown so that the newly-made dental cap can fit instead.
Step Six: Final Preparations
Before attaching the crown, the dentist will ensure no final adjustments are needed. For example, if the shape is correct or if the crown’s color matches your teeth.
Step Seven: The Final Coronation
When everything is clear, the dentist will place the dental cap right onto your tooth. This is a painless method, and you won’t even feel a thing!
The Final Takeaway
Thus, getting a crown does not hurt in the slightest. Especially not when you’re already under heavy sedation. Even after the procedure, dental crowns are free of pain. It’s common to experience slight tenderness or soreness, but nothing too extreme. Nonetheless, if your crown starts to throb in pain, reach out to a medical professional immediately. For more information, call Texas Premier Dental at (281) 206-0100.